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B-2 tourist
visas
The B-2 nonimmigrant
visa is one that is widely used by foreign visitors. Millions of foreign
tourists use this visa to visit the United States and enjoy all the U.S.
has to offer. When planning to use this visa for a vacation, there are few
things to keep in mind.
Perhaps the most important characteristic about the B-2 visa is its
duration. When an individual applies at an U.S. consulate in their home
country for a B-2 visa, he will be given one that will permit him to stay
in the U.S. for a period of about six months. If a visitor wishes to stay
beyond the initial period of time allotted on her B-2, she can apply for
an extension. While it is possible to obtain permission to stay beyond the
six months, it is not always granted.
The U.S. Department of State has listed four requirements that an
applicant must satisfy to obtain a B-2 visa.
1. The visitor is entering the U.S. for a temporary period of time. The
visitor plans to leave when the visa expires and does not intend to stay
in the U.S. permanently. Be prepared to show a round-trip ticket as proof
of this intent. A letter describing the nature of the trip and details the
itinerary is helpful as well.
2. The visitor has a residence outside the U.S. that he does not intend on
abandoning. This can be shown via deeds to real estate. These help to
persuade the consular officer that the visitor has strong ties to his home
country and is likely to return there.
3. The visitor has sufficient finances to sustain herself while she is in
the U.S. Bank statements can be shown as proof. If a child is traveling,
an affidavit of support may be required. This sworn support statement is
usually made by the U.S. resident whom the tourist is visiting.
4. The visitor will participate in activities consistent with the B-2
visa. For tourists, this has an important meaning: the B-2 visa holder
cannot work during his stay. Appropriate activities include vacationing,
visiting friends/family, and even coming to the U.S. to seek medical
attention. Employment is strictly prohibited.
An U.S. visa can be considered to be a "key" which enables
foreigners visitors entry into the U.S. The tourist must go to the U.S.
consulate in their home country and present the following documents to get
the B-2 visa: a passport issued by their home country's government.
Supporting documentation showing that the tourist has ties to their home
country and will return after their stay in the U.S. Passport sized
photographs that will be imprinted on the visas. Form OF-156 (filled-out):
this is the standard nonimmigrant visa application available at all U.S.
consulates. Lastly, the visitor will have to pay any applicable visa fees.
The B-2 visa enables these people to come and enjoy being with their
families, friends, and visit the attractions of the U.S.
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